President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Monday lauded the Nigerian athletes for their heroic performance at the just concluded 2016 Paralympics in Rio, Brazil, as he said Nigerians are proud of them.

Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja said the physically challenged athletes have once again rewritten the nation’s name in gold by emerging the topmost African team with 12 medals comprising eight gold, two silver, and two bronze medals at the tournament.

According to him, “Nigerian athletes have demonstrated a remarkable performance. What amazed me most were the new World Records set by six of our power-lifting representatives and other athletes.

“I am proud of this performance and encourage younger and aspiring athletes to put in more hard work and dedication towards realising their dreams. Nigeria is rich and endowed with young talented lads. We in the Senate will not relent in partnering and supporting our best hands in order to improve on our sporting standard.”

The Senate President also commended the Rio Paralympic 2016 Team Nigeria technical crew, coaches, fans and other partners who collectively ensured the victory recorded in the various contests. He added that the glory attained is not only for the nation but a sign of honour and patriotism on the part of the athletes.

•Photo shows a cross section of Nigeria’s 2016 Rio Paralympic contingent.